Three‐dimensional lung reconstructions for the localization of lung nodules to be resected during surgery

Abstract Background The localization of lung nodules is challenging during thoracoscopy. In this study, we evaluated the use of three‐dimensional (3D) lung reconstruction for use in the operating room to guide the identification of lung nodules during thoracoscopy. Methods This was a single‐center retrospective study. All consecutive patients undergoing thoracoscopic resection of lung nodules were included in the study. Patients were retrospectively divided into two groups based upon whether the thoracoscopic resection was performed with the assistance (3D group) or not (standard group) of 3D lung reconstruction. The operative time (minutes) to detect lung nodules was statistically compared between the two study groups in relation to the characteristics of lung nodules as size, localization, and distance from the visceral pleura. Results Our study population consisted of 170 patients: 85 in the 3D group and 85 in the standard group. No intergroup difference differences were found regarding the characteristics and histological diagnosis of lesions. The standard group compared to the 3D group was associated with a significantly longer operative time for the detection of lesions